Prime Minister Mark Carney pledged Thursday that Canadian governments will fully protect local workers and businesses against new 50 percent tariff threats issued by U.
S. President Donald Trump.
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Speaking at the First Ministers Meeting in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Carney said the incoming trade penalties are part of an ongoing pattern of unwarranted international trade friction.
The U. S.
administration announced the elevated tariffs will take effect on Aug. 19, targeting Canadian products such as honey, cement, and hockey sticks.
The move is in retaliation for provincial policies on American liquor, dairy, and vehicle quotas.
"We're clear Canadian governments around this table will do whatever it takes to defend and support our families, our workers, and our business," Carney said.
Despite the fresh pressure from Washington, federal leadership highlighted that domestic resilience has increased significantly over the course of the ongoing economic dispute.
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"Let's also be clear that we are in a stronger position than we were when this trade war started 18 months ago," Carney said.
Carney noted that the nation's relative economic stability stems directly from nationwide cooperation and the focused efforts of local leaders.
"We're in a stronger position because of the determination of Canadians themselves and I will say this because of the focus of the premiers around this table," Carney said.
Thirteen provincial and territorial leaders expressed unity with federal negotiators attempting to calm trade relations and negotiate the renewal of the U.
S. -Canada-Mexico Agreement.
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They also sought increased healthcare funding and faster approvals for domestic infrastructure projects.
